Player Interview: John Villanueva (2017)
The 6’6 forward has already signed his National Letter of Intent with Central Wyoming College. Here is my interview on John’s journey to where he is today.
Tell me how you started playing basketball?
“I came from New York City and I arrived at Hillcrest to register for classes and the counselor noticed how big I was. He told the head coach, Sam Richins about me and invited me to open gyms. I was terrible as a sophomore but my coach took a chance on me and kept me on the team.”
What drove you to become a better basketball player?
“I am very competitive and I didn’t like being bad so I decided to that I was going to work so I could be a part of the varsity team.”
What is your favorite moment in your high school career?
“The state tournament run we had to the final four. No one expected us to even get out of the first round os to make the run we did was pretty awesome.”
What made you decide to sign with Central Wyoming College?
“I went to Central on a visit and liked their program and the coaches. They also had the best financial package compared to any other school.”
What are you looking forward to the most about playing college basketball?
“To get better as a player and a person. It will be my first time being on my own and I’m excited about that. I’m looking to play at a four-year school after Central and that will be my goal.”
What are some things you want to work on before you head to school in August?
“I want to work on my quickness and strength before I get up there. I know this will be very important for playing at the college level. I know the athletes are so much better at that level.”
Prep Hoops Evaluation: John has come so far in his three short years of playing competitive basketball. He is a fierce rebounder and I believe that will translate to the college game. His offensive moves still have a ways to go but I believe they will come along with some hard work. His first year at Central Wyoming College I think he will be a very good utility guy off of their bench. I project he will be able to play at the NAIA or NCAA D2 level after two years of junior college.